Not that they talked - [they] knew each other so well that there was often nothing to say. But without her there, [he] grew impatient with his own thoughts; they never came to a point, because there was no one to tell them to
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Deep familiarity can silence conversation, yet the presence of a trusted other is needed to clarify one's own thoughts.
- In plain terms
- You know someone so well you don't talk, but you need them to focus your mind.
- What can you take from it?
- Presence matters more than words for mental clarity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who grounds your thoughts without speaking?
- When did silence feel more communicative than words?
Another view
It assumes a level of trust that may not exist in all relationships.
More from Orson Scott Card
I wanted to hurry because I have a work to do there, and every day here is marking time, and because it hurts me every time I see you and [he] growing closer a…
Permalink to quote #84 I only disbelieve the unbelievable
Permalink to quote #86 I followed you gladly to two dozen worlds, but you wouldn't even stay two weeks when I asked you Listen to yourself and then see why I have to leave now, befor…
Permalink to quote #83
Related quotes
Embla lies with each thing, Ask looks and knows. Understanding without explanation they depart and separate.
John Carder BushJohn Carder Bush quote #1 and you kissed me shy as though I'd never been your lover
Leonard CohenLeonard Cohen quote #1 No girl, however coolly her blood may flow, can be pressed to a man's breast, wildly throbbing with love for her, and not experience some agitation in conseque…
Edward BellamyEdward Bellamy quote #3